Other Immigration Services
Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA)
Help presenting evidence of the risks you would face if removed from Canada.
Overview
A pre-removal risk assessment considers whether returning you to another country would expose you to persecution, torture, a risk to life, or cruel and unusual treatment or punishment. IRCC assesses the application; it is separate from an appeal of a refugee decision.
You can apply only after CBSA tells you that you are eligible. Waiting periods and exclusions can apply. Where a previous refugee claim or PRRA was rejected, there are restrictions on which new evidence can be considered.
We help organize your account and supporting records, with close attention to the notification's deadlines. A timely first PRRA generally stays removal while it is assessed; late or repeat applications do not automatically provide that protection.
Who may consider this: People facing removal who have been notified by CBSA that they may apply for a PRRA.
Eligibility Considerations
- A CBSA notification confirming that you may apply
- Meeting the applicable waiting-period rules or a recognized exception
- Evidence of a personal risk in the country of removal
How It Works
Notification Review
We review your CBSA notice and identify the application and evidence deadlines.
Previous File Review
We compare earlier decisions with your current circumstances.
Evidence Preparation
We organize personal records and country information that support your account.
Submission
We prepare the forms and written explanation for submission to IRCC.
Decision & Next Steps
We explain the outcome and identify whether urgent legal assistance is needed.
Documents You May Need
Document requirements vary by applicant and pathway — not every applicant needs every item below. We confirm your specific list during an assessment.
- CBSA notification and removal correspondence
- Earlier refugee or PRRA decisions
- Identity records and evidence of personal threats or harm
- Relevant country reports and translated supporting records
Common Issues to Watch For
These are presented to help you prepare, not to cause concern — most are avoidable with careful preparation.
- Missing the deadlines in the CBSA notice
- Repeating earlier evidence without explaining why it can now be considered
- Submitting general country information without connecting it to your personal risk
How We Help
- Build a clear timeline from your records
- Identify gaps and inconsistencies before submission
- Prepare an organized account supported by relevant evidence
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply whenever I feel at risk?+
No. CBSA must first notify you that you are eligible. We review that notice before preparing an application.
Does applying always stop removal?+
No. Protection depends on the type and timing of your application. Review your notification urgently rather than assuming that a submission stops removal.
Is PRRA another refugee appeal?+
No. It is a separate assessment of risk before removal, with its own eligibility and evidence rules.
The information on this website is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration policies, fees, processing times, and eligibility requirements change frequently. Please verify current requirements with official government sources or a qualified immigration professional before making decisions.